Mary Wainwright was, in 1857, the founder of what became known as the Liverpool Voluntary Society for the Blind (nowadays 'Bradbury Fields'). She headed a committee of 14 women, the initial aim being to teach blind people to read the Moon system of embossed type. In particular, poor blind people were taught to read the Bible, both in the Liverpool workhouse and in their own homes. Within a few years the organisation had progressed to providing employment and vocational training, centred around the Liverpool Workshops for the Blind in Bold Street and, later on, Cornwallis Street.

Margaret Guppy has written a book about Mary Wainwright's life and achievements. Although the book is now out of print, she - and her guide dog Nicola - will be bringing CDs containing the text, for sale after the talk.ALL WELCOMEAdmission freeDonations invited